Fire testing conducted to justify provisions for three new mass timber construction types in the 2021 I-Codes was performed using an earlier generation of cross-laminated timber (CLT). U.S. model building codes now require compliance with the enhanced fire performance criteria of PRG 320-18. To investigate fire-safe implementation of visible mass timber in tall buildings constructed with PRG 320-18-compliant CLT, the U.S. Forest Service funded a 2-year research program starting in 2019. Test results and conclusions from this research program are presented in this webinar, followed by a discussion of ways in which the test results are being applied in tall mass timber building design and regulation.

Learning Objectives:

1. State the need for follow-up testing performed at the Research Institutes of Sweden (RISE).
2. Describe the test configuration, assumptions associated with opening factors, fuel loads and fire extinguishment criteria.
3. Understand the configurations of exposed mass timber walls and ceilings which contribute to self-extinguishment of fires in compartments.
4. Summarize results and describe ways in which the findings from the RISE research are being applied in support of ICC G147-21 and can serve as justification for alternative approvals for tall mass timber building designs.

Funding provided in part by the Softwood Lumber Board.